WATER OVER NICKEL: YOUTH AMBASSADOR PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT

By Kelly Applegate, Commissioner of Natural Resources

At the 2026 State of the Band Address, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Chief Executive Virgil Wind honored the vital work of Water Over Nickel and its Youth Ambassadors, emphasizing the Band's continued leadership in protecting clean water, cultural lifeways, and the future of all Minnesotans.

"Water Over Nickel is the Band's commitment to protect our water, land, and people from the risks of nickel mining," said Chief Executive Wind. "Water connects us to our past, our future, and each other. The proposed Tamarack mine, just a mile from Round Lake and near sacred sites like Rice Lake and Sandy Lake, poses a risk too great to ignore. There has never, ever, ever been a clean nickel mine."

In celebration of the 2025 Year of the Child, Chief Executive Wind warmly acknowledged the Water Over Nickel Youth Ambassadors for their inspiring leadership and growing contributions. "These young leaders are helping both Band members and Minnesotans understand what's at stake," he said, proudly highlighting Illyanna Aubid-White, J.J. Aubid-White, Elbert White Ill, and Jaymon Aubid as outstanding Water Over Nickel Youth Ambassadors. "These ambassadors are just a shining example of what we're building. They will carry this work forward."

Special thanks were extended to Cheyenne Pete for leading this youth group and organizing cultural activities, such as last fall's Water Over Nickel Day performances and the Ripple Effects screening. Through dance and tradition, the youth reminded everyone that our strength is rooted in culture and connection to this land.

What Is the Water Ambassador Program?

Water Over Nickels ambassador program is a grassroots volunteer effort that gives Mille Lacs Band members the opportunity to protect clean water and advocate for environmental and cultural stewardship.

Ambassadors' typical volunteer responsibilities include sharing updates at community events and district meetings and participating in education and outreach.

This work is especially important as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is expected to open a public comment period on the proposed Tamarack mine in Summer 2026.

"This is a critical moment for Band members and all Minnesotans to raise their voices," said Chief Executive Wind. "To make it clear that our water is not worth sacrificing, that our cultural lifeways cannot be collateral damage, and that our future deserves better."

How do I become a Water Ambassador?

If you're interested in volunteering as a Water Ambassador, please send an email to waterovernickel@gmail.com with the following information:

• Your name

• Your contact information (email, phone number)

• Why you're interested in getting involved with Water Over Nickel

This is an excellent opportunity to be part of meaningful work that protects our environment and helps share the Band's message. We hope to hear from you soon!

Visit www.waterovernickel.com to learn more.